COTABATO CITY (PIA)—More than a hundred "bancas" or Moro boats colorfully decorated with Maguindanaon inspired cloth in vivid colors of yellow, red, and green, recently traversed the waters of Rio Grande de Mindanao here to honor the arrival of Shariff Kabunsuan in Mindanao which started the spread of Islam 500 years ago.

The said activity is in line with the annual ‘Guinakit’ (convoy of boats) Fluvial Parade as part of this year’s celebration of the Shariff Kabunsuan Festival.

Colorful Pandalas or tribal flags symbolizing courage, sovereignty, hope and peace can also be seen on the boats.

The fluvial parade reenacted the historic arrival of Shariff Kabunsuan on the shores of Cotabato, and is said to be the grandest fluvial parade as the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) government and the City Government of Cotabato teamed up for the first time.

BARMM Chief Minister Ahod Murad Ebrahim expressed his gladness as he witnessed the celebration of Guinakit Fluvial Parade with thousands of Cotabateños.

“I am very happy that after the struggle of the Bangsamoro, I am here with you celebrating this most important celebration of our generations,” Ebrahim shared.

“This creative and meaningful ceremony is a symbol of the past journey and adventure of those who lived before us and left civilized and progressive communities and rich cultures that we take pride in and cherish until now,” he added.

Among those who participated in the activity were various ministries and offices from BARMM and the City Government of Cotabato.

Meanwhile, the BARMM government expressed hope that the activity will pave the way to further promote peace and unity in the region regardless of culture, religion, and language.